Blood drives scheduled for this week

The Red Cross is sponsoring several blood drives this week in an attempt to shore up supplies that have been badly depleted.

As the July 4th holiday approaches, hospital and emergency response officials are asking for donors to make a special effort.

Blood drives will be held Thursday from 10:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the State Employees Credit Union on Berkeley Boulevard and from 2 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at the Red Cross building on George Street; on Friday from 10:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Wayne County Public Library and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Arrington Volunteer Fire Department.

There is a special need for types O and B.

Eligible donors must be at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in general good health. Donors can give blood every 56 days.

For more information, call the Wayne County Chapter at 735-7201 or 1-800-GIVE LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit www.redcrossblood.org.